The Polish Autocephalous Orthodox Church celebrated the conclusion of its centennial festivities with a spiritually uplifting ceremony at the Hagia Sophia Church in Warsaw on November 24, 2024. This marked the end of a year-long series of events that began with the church’s consecration on May 14, 2023, commemorating 100 years of autonomy.
Throughout the year, the Church organized various activities such as conferences, symposia, lectures, festivals, concerts, educational competitions, and exhibitions. Documentaries were also created to showcase the Church’s history and notable figures. Special liturgical services and prayers were held in different dioceses, with a major gathering at Holy Mount Grabarka during the Feast of the Transfiguration in August.
On November 13, 2024, a significant event took place at the Metropolitan Cathedral in Warsaw to honor the anniversary of the Church’s autocephaly. These celebrations brought together Orthodox believers from all over the country in a spirit of gratitude and devotion.
The culminating Divine Liturgy at Hagia Sophia Church was presided over by Metropolitan Sawa, the Primate of the Polish Autocephalous Orthodox Church, with the participation of the Holy Synod and clergy members.
Metropolitan Sawa received a warm reception from the faithful and clergy, including a parishioner who had first met him during his episcopal visit in 1983. Archbishop Paisjusz of Przemyśl and Gorlice delivered a moving sermon, encouraging believers to uphold the teachings of scripture in their daily lives and stand firm in their faith amidst contemporary challenges.
During the service, special prayers were offered for the Church’s history, its leaders, and the dedicated faithful who have contributed to Orthodoxy in Poland. Metropolitan Sawa led a prayer of thanksgiving, expressing appreciation for God’s blessings over the past century and seeking divine protection for the nation, unity among its people, and deliverance from hardships.
The centennial celebrations coincided with the 45th anniversary of Metropolitan Sawa’s episcopal ordination. Reflecting on his years of service, he expressed profound gratitude to Christ for the opportunity to serve in this capacity, acknowledging both the challenges and joys he has experienced.
Metropolitan Sawa honored Bishops Paweł and Warsonofiusz with the Order of Saint Mary Magdalene (2nd Degree) for their contributions to the Church. Archbishop Abel of Lublin presented the Metropolitan with an icon of Christ the Great High Priest (Megas Archiereus) as a token of esteem. The event also featured an exhibition of children’s artwork inspired by the Church’s centennial.
In his address, Metropolitan Sawa underscored the spiritual and historical significance of the Hagia Sophia Church in Warsaw, describing it as a beacon of Orthodoxy in the heart of Europe. He remarked, “The melodies of Orthodox hymns resonate within this sacred space, a testament to a divine miracle and gift.”
The faithful, clergy, and hierarchs in attendance expressed profound gratitude to Metropolitan Sawa for his decades of service and leadership, offering prayers for his continued well-being and ministry. The day concluded with blessings for the Church’s future as a steadfast bastion of faith and truth.
Source: Church of Poland
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